Cultural Identity Research Articles

Embracing heritage: Baghdadi Shahsavans’ strategies to preserve their cultural identity in Qom

ABSTRACT This study seeks to determine to what extent the Baghdadi Shahsavans have been successful in maintaining their tribal identity after years of living in Qom and what strategies have they employed for this? The method used in this research for data collection and analysis is the Grounded Theory. The findings show that the majority of Baghdadi Shahsavans have a much greater sense of belonging to tribal identity compared to urban identity. Even their interest in Qom arises through tribal affiliation, which is strengthened through intra-group relations. The findings show that the preservation of tribal identity has been possible because of three strategies: (1) the demarcation of identity, which results from cultural pride and attributing positive features to own tribe, (2) the preservation of cultural identity, which includes the preservation of customs and traditions, adherence to intra-group visits, cherishing tribal music, and speaking in Shahsavani, and (3) insisting on the tribal identity in response to threatening dangers. This study shows that Baghdadi Shahsavans prioritize their Iranian national identity over urban identity indicating that both tribal and national identities hold more significance for them compared to urban identity. This study also examined the lifestyle of Baghdadi Shahsavans after making settlements in Qom. The findings show that their settlement in the city provided them with a new tribal identity in accordance with their new urban environment.

Persistent organic pollutants among seafood processing workers in West Greenland

The Greenlandic population is highly exposed to persistent organic pollutants (POPs) through the consumption of traditional marine food, including marine mammals. Central to Greenland's economy and cultural identity, the fishing industry employes about 15% of the working population.This study investigated POP exposure, including polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), organochlorine pesticides (OCPs), and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs), among seafood processing workers at the Greenlandic west coast. We examined determinants for the POPs including age, smoking habits, ethnicity, and working place. Additionally, we explored the association between POPs and the prevalence of asthma, allergy, and lung function.With samples taken during 2016–2018, the study encompassed 382 workers, primarily of Inuit descent (93%), employed across three large factories located in Nuuk, Sisimiut, and Ilulissat, four smaller factories in settlements (Kangaatsiaq, Ikerasaarsuk, Sarfannguaq, Qeqertarsuaq), and four factory trawlers. Data collected include clinical examinations, questionnaires on ethnicity, occupational exposure status, health indicators, and smoking habits, and serum selenium and POP analyses. We used ANCOVA with adjustment for relevant confounders to assess differences in POPs between groups (e.g. ethnic groups and working place), and multiple linear and logistic regressions were used to assess associations between POPs and lung function, allergy and asthma.Significant differences in POPs were observed among ethnic groups; Faroese workers had the highest concentrations of lipophilic POPs (lipPOPs; PCBs and OCPs), while Inuit workers exhibited highest PFASs. All subsequent analyses were focused on the Inuit workers (n = 337). The PFASs were significantly higher in workers at small factories, followed by large factories and trawlers, whereas no differences were seen for lipPOPs. The differences between the working places were most likely due to differences in lifestyle and diet, but occupational exposures cannot be excluded.LipPOP and PFAS concentrations associated positively with selenium, and PFASs positively associated with lung function. However, upon adjustment of selenium, the associations between PFASs and lung function became non-significant and attenuated towards null. No significant associations were found between POPs and the prevalence of asthma or allergy.Compared to the general population in the same area and period, the seafood processing workers exhibited 2–6 times higher POP levels. The higher exposure level among seafood processing workers, as well as the difference across workplaces, underscore the need for further investigation of environmental and occupational sources of POPs in this population. These findings may contribute to future public health strategies and regulatory measures to reduce POP exposure in Arctic populations.

California’s 2023 Chinese-Western Cuisine: Impact on Community Health and Cultural Identity

This study explores the impact of California’s Chinese-Western fusion cuisine on community health and cultural identity in 2023. The paper examines how this emerging culinary trend, deeply rooted in cross-cultural influences, has gained significant popularity and reshaped the state’s food culture. By analyzing recent data, this research investigates the dual roles of fusion cuisine in promoting healthier eating habits and strengthening cultural connections among diverse populations. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative analysis of health indicators with qualitative assessments of cultural identity. Findings reveal key trends in dietary practices and cultural acceptance, offering insights for future policy recommendations and identifying opportunities for promoting public health and cultural inclusivity. The implications of this research highlight the potential of Chinese-Western fusion cuisine to contribute positively to societal well-being and cultural understanding in a rapidly globalizing world.

The Case for Compulsory Music Education in U.S. K-12 Schools: A Path to Fostering Cultural Identity and Inclusivity

This paper investigates the possible advantages of having music education as a required part of the U.S. K-12 curricula, particularly relating to how it can help develop cultural identities and encourage social cohesion. Music education helps develop cultural identity in that it creates shared experiences, preserves heritage, and encourages intercultural understanding. Questions of practical implementation—equity disparities, curricular prejudices, and lack of finances—fall into place as some of these challenges. It is contended in the paper that compulsory music education, far from these challenges, has rich cultural and educational rewards and for that matter prescribes remediating through legislative advocacy and public-private partnerships, and culturally responsive teaching practices.

Community-based development and indigenous evaluation in Africa: insights from Ghana

ABSTRACT Community-based development (CBD) evaluation is often rooted in mainstream evaluation theories and methods to the detriment of Afrocentric evaluation philosophies and practices. Afrocentric values, grounded in cultural ideals and relational patterns, are the foundation of the search for new knowledge. The notion is that indigenous evaluation values and assumptions could aid in developing alternative concepts, approaches, and practices for assessing CBD initiatives. Employing a thematic analysis approach rooted in indigenously responsive evaluation (IRE), this paper identified tangible and intangible notions such as social networks, relational stakeholders, social accountability, mutual respect, community participation, community spirit, relational feedback, and consensus building as some of the key concepts embedded in social and development activities that have the potential for effective CBD and evaluation activities. This paper outlined cultural evaluation components that Ghana and Africa at large may effectively include in contemporary evaluation frameworks to ensure the sustainability of CBD and evaluation initiatives.

The agency of object: the doppa as a narrator for a dynamic Uyghur identity

ABSTRACT This article explores the Uyghur doppa from the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries to understand Uyghur cultural life and identity. It links the doppa to Uyghur history and the evolving sense of ‘Uyghurness’, reflecting its cultural significance today, both in Xinjiang and through the diaspora. The limited scholarly work on the doppa, spanning 150 years, suggests a gender bias in documenting female-associated crafts. Ironically, at a time when the doppa holds increasing importance, especially with the creation of Doppa Day (5 May), this lack of resources opens up space for creative discourse on Uyghur identity. The study also reveals a tendency to adapt through cultural experiences while maintaining a deep connection to the homeland. Ultimately, this research demonstrates how a small cultural object can provide profound insights into community sensibilities and material culture.

“Cultural In-Betweenness” in Borderland Films of Malaysian and Indonesian Cinemas

ABSTRACT This paper examines cinematic representations of the borderlands between Malaysia-Thailand and Malaysia-Indonesia in the twenty-first century. The films focusing on the region explore problematic issues such as the intersection of traditions, issues of identity and belonging, the modern nation-state system, and the citizens in these peripheral areas. This paper employs film discourse analysis, and the ideas discussed herein are crucial to the national cinemas of the region, as they operate in a manner akin to Deleuze and Guattari’s concepts of the war machine, the smooth space, and nomadology. These representations raise questions about uneven power dynamics between the hegemonic center and the peripheral other. This investigation analyses two films: Batas (Rudi Soedjarwo, 2011) from Indonesia and Bunohan: Return to Murder (Dain Said, 2012) from Malaysia. This paper argues that the portrayal of borderlands and borders challenges the stability of inwardly focused and ethnocentric national cultural identities by presenting the borderlands of this island region as nomadic spaces, conveying a nomadic ethos and a sense of “in-betweenness” among its people.

Double Diaspora and Transgenerational Memory in Nikesh Shukla’s The One Who Wrote Destiny

This article offers a focused exploration of Nikesh Shukla's The One Who Wrote Destiny (2018), delving into the challenges and complexities of the 'double diaspora' experienced by British South Asian characters in the UK. Situated at the intersection of literary analysis and sociocultural studies, the study addresses the novel’s thematic core, emphasizing the lasting impact of racism and cultural displacement across multiple generations. Utilizing Jan Assmann's framework of 'communicative memory' and 'cultural memory,' alongside Maya Parmar's exploration of double diaspora, the study investigates the evolution of memory representation, highlighting the transformation from lived, embodied memory to mediated, cultural forms. Central to this research is the examination of double diaspora, as outlined by Parmar, exploring the migration of the Gujarati community from South Asia to East Africa and later to Britain, and the identity struggles arising from these dual displacements. Through this in-depth analysis, the article explores the intricate interplay between memory, generational shifts, and the unique challenges faced by twice-migrant communities. It provides valuable insights into the evolving nature of immigrant experiences, cultural identity, and belonging in the United Kingdom since the turn of the millennium. This analysis contributes to a broader understanding of how transgenerational memory and double diaspora influence cultural adaptation and identity formation within diasporic communities, reflecting wider sociocultural trends in contemporary Britain.

Practical Research on Integrating Folk Art into Public Art Education Courses

This study focuses on the feasibility and practical strategies for integrating folk art into public art education courses. By exploring the cultural heritage and educational value of folk art, it analyzes the current shortcomings in public art education and underscores the necessity of incorporating folk art into the curriculum. The study designs suitable content and methods, including traditional art optimization and diverse resource applications, to strengthen students' cultural identity and aesthetic development. Additionally, case studies demonstrate the tangible effects of integrating folk art into public art education, with results indicating a significant improvement in students’ understanding and appreciation of local art. This research provides new insights for future public art course designs and proposes expanding folk art education with technological support.

Implementing an adaptive reuse on industrial buildings: a proposal for transforming Erbil’s Silo in Kurdistan-Iraq into a hotel

Industrial buildings, serving as markers of cultural heritage, connect our cultural identity from the past through the present and into the future. Unfortunately, many of these buildings lose their identity when they are converted into another function. Through the case study analysis (the Silo of Erbil City), a qualitative method is employed to examine design strategies and spatial transformations in recent adaptive reuse projects of existing structures. Through the literature review, this research investigates the importance of adaptive reuse and heritage buildings, underscoring their historical and theoretical underpinnings, and subsequently examines contemporary approaches to architectural criteria towards habitation for existing structures in the public, creative, and cultural domains. The study findings identify common fundamental elements of industrial heritage adaptive reuse and innovative design strategies applied in recent adaptive reuse projects, highlighting the potential to transform neglected or vacant abandoned buildings into urban open spaces. The study uses a comprehensive methodology involving case study analyses and diverse data collection techniques. The case study properties are the structural systems, natural lighting, and the surrounding open spaces. As a result, a hotel with a multipurpose hall, and a museum dedicated to the history of the Silo have been proposed, aiming at conserving the valuable heritage in this industrial area as well as providing an alternative perspective for the adaptive reuse of industrial structures in Erbil city. Finally, the implications of the research for the economic and social dimensions of urban development lie in understanding and promoting sustainable preservation strategies. This work is considered the first step for future research in Iraq, specifically in Kurdistan Region. The research concludes that the Silo of Erbil is one of the successful examples of the process of reusing buildings. It also concludes that less intervention in reusing a building can protect the building identity.

Fostering Cultural Awareness and Academic Engagement through Poetry Analysis in Kazakh Educational Contexts

This study investigated the effects of activity-based and traditional analysis methods on students’ attitudes toward poetry, academic achievement, and cultural identity. A pre-test-post-test control group experimental design—a quantitative research method—was employed. The class using activity-based analysis methods for poetry analysis was designated as the experimental group, while the class following the traditional analysis method served as the control group. Participants were second-year students from the Kazakh Literature Department at a university in Almaty, Kazakhstan. The study spanned eight weeks and involved 18 female and 15 male students in the experimental group, with 17 female and 15 male students in the control group. All students provided informed consent to participate voluntarily. The Scale of Attitude toward Poetry, Poetry Analysis Skills Academic Achievement Test, and Cultural Identity Perception Scale were administered to measure the study variables. The findings revealed that activity-based analysis methods positively impacted students’ attitudes toward poetry, with the experimental group demonstrating a more favorable approach than the control group. Additionally, students in the experimental group achieved higher academic performance in poetry analysis skills than those in the control group. Although both groups showed a general improvement in their cultural identity perception, no significant difference was found between them. These results support the potential of activity-based approaches in poetry education to increase student achievement and attitudes. Consequently, integrating such methods should be actively encouraged in future educational practices.

Forming national identity with televised cultural rituals: a critical discourse analysis of China’s Ancient Rhyme and New Voice—Qingming program

Studies on media and national identity emphasize the need for a comprehensive and culturally sensitive approach to understanding the complex relationship between media and identity. This study used critical discourse analysis to examine the depiction of cultural rituals in the Ancient Rhyme and New Voice—Qingming program and its role in forming and reinforcing national identity in China. The program, broadcast on China Central Television, showcases three traditional Chinese cultural rituals: ancestor worship, agricultural rites, and spring outings. The analysis showed that the program aroused shared emotions, beliefs, and values among Chinese audiences, enhancing cohesion and cultural identification, and advancing the construction of Chinese national identity. The study highlights the importance of such cultural programs in promoting cultural identification and underscores the significant role of televised cultural rituals in shaping and reinforcing national identity in an increasingly globalized world.

Social Media and New Femininities: Review of <em>Digital Femininities: The Gendered Construction of Cultural and Political Identities Online</em> by Frankie Rogan, London: Routledge, 2022

Social Media and New Femininities: Review of <em>Digital Femininities: The Gendered Construction of Cultural and Political Identities Online</em> by Frankie Rogan, London: Routledge, 2022

Exploring the Importance of Traditional Schools in Maintaining the Heritage Language: A Study of Tshivenḓa from Tshimbupfhe, South Africa

This study aimed to explore the critical role of traditional schools—specifically murundu and vhusha—in preserving the Tshivenḓa language and cultural heritage in Tshimbupfhe, in the Limpopo Province, South Africa. Traditional schools play a significant role in preserving languages and cultural traditions that might otherwise be at risk of erosion due to globalisation, modernisation, or cultural assimilation. A deeper comprehension of their role allows individuals to appreciate more fully how these schools contribute to the preservation of cultural diversity and heritage. The study sampled 31 participants. This study adopted a qualitative approach and relied on face-to-face semi-structured interviews to collect and analyse data. The theoretical framework used to underpin the study was the Afrocentricity theory. The findings of the study illustrated that traditional schools serve as pivotal institutions for the transmission of linguistic and cultural knowledge, integrating indigenous values, practices, and language into their curricula. The study provides insights into how traditional schools facilitate the transmission of cultural values, practices, and languages to younger generations. By exploring the methods and content of traditional education, the research highlights how these institutions contribute to cultural continuity and identity. Secondly, the study contributes to the documentation and preservation of indigenous educational practices and pedagogies. It offers a comprehensive account of how traditional schools operate, including their teaching methods and cultural rituals, thereby preserving valuable knowledge for future generations. Furthermore, this study enhances the understanding of traditional schools’ significance and supports the preservation of language and cultural heritage.

Vroegmiddeleeuwse funeraire diversiteit en de diepste dialectgrenzen in de Nederlanden

The most prominent dialect boundaries in the Dutch language area run from north to south, ending in the southwest between the rivers Scheldt and Dender. Notably, one isogloss separates an eastern region with long vowels fronted by i-umlaut, from a western region lacking that feature. This paper examines the main historical linguistic perspectives on the origins of this complex phenomenon integrating historical and archaeological evidence. A general explanation for the dialect boundaries posits a confrontation between an Ingvaeonic or North Sea Germanic movement from the west and a Frankish movement from the (north)east. The stabilisation of this confrontation, particularly the umlaut-isogloss between the Scheldt and the Dender, remains unresolved and is one of the most intriguing aspects of the Germanic colonisation of the region. Although historical sources are sparse, recent archaeological research has provided new insights. Archaeology, which studies human traces left in the ground - including living forms, artefacts, agriculture and burial practices – has revealed that early medieval cremation rites coincide with the umlaut-isogloss in that region, revealing a convergence between archaeological and historical linguistic evidence. Northern populations, familiar with Ingvaeonic customs, practised cremation, giving the oldest Ingvaeonic elements in the Low Countries both a cultural and linguistic identity. Alongside the Franks, the Saxons also contributed significantly to the colonisation history of the area. Therefore, it is essential to outline the historical knowledge of the first appearances of the Saxons, Franks and Thuringians and their interactions. Contemporary sources such as the Byzantine author Procopius (c. 550) are valuable for a better understanding of colonisation on both sides of the Channel and the North Sea. The roots of the umlaut-isoglosses in the Ingvaeonic continuum prompt a discussion of Ingvaeonisms and their early manifestations, including place names ending in -inga haim, within the broader context of the Dutch-Roman language boundary.

Strengthening Tourism Products Through Storytelling Exploration in Kemiriombo, Gerbosari Village, Samigaluh District, Kulonprogo Regency

Kemiriombo, a hamlet in Gerbosari Village, Kulon Progo, Yogyakarta, is known for its diversity of spices (empon-empon) cultivated and processed by the local community. This area has significant potential for developing tourism based on local culture and traditions, but the tourism narrative has not been optimally managed. This study aims to explore the potential of storytelling as a strategy for developing tourist destinations in Kemiriombo. The methods used include observation, interviews, Focus Group Discussions (FGD), surveys, and community participation to understand the needs and expectations of the local community. The study found that Kemiriombo has tourism potential such as the processing of empon-empon at Rumah Jamu Menoreh, local cultural arts such as Jathilan, Gejog Lesung, and Karawitan, as well as culinary traditions like Sega Brongsong and Legondo. The 5W1H technique (Who, What, When, Where, Why, How) was applied in the storytelling analysis to produce engaging narratives that can promote local cultural identity. Storytelling plays a crucial role in introducing local products and traditions, enhancing tourist attraction, and preserving community culture. Through the development of strong narratives, Kemiriombo is expected to become a tourist destination that offers not only visual experiences but also emotional and social dimensions for visitors. The integration of local traditions and storytelling innovation is expected to positively impact the welfare of the local community.

Exploring Bilingualism: Cognitive Benefits and Cultural Challenges

Bilingualism is a multifaceted phenomenon with profound implications for cognitive functioning and cultural identity. Research has consistently shown that being bilingual enhances cognitive abilities, such as improved executive function, greater cognitive flexibility, and superior problem-solving skills. These cognitive advantages stem from the constant mental exercise of managing two linguistic systems, which enhances brain plasticity and can even provide protective effects against cognitive decline in aging. However, the benefits of bilingualism are accompanied by cultural and identity challenges. Bilingual individuals often navigate complex social dynamics, including cultural duality, identity conflicts, and experiences of language stigmatization or marginalization. This article explores these cognitive benefits and cultural challenges, analyzing how bilingualism influences an individual's worldview and opens up diverse career opportunities. It also discusses the broader societal implications, highlighting the importance of creating supportive environments for bilingual and multilingual communities.

Thriving Beyond Adversity: A Prospective Longitudinal Cohort Study Using a Strength-Based Approach Depicts Indigenous Adolescents with Less Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) Had Fewer Neurodevelopmental Disorders (NDDs)

Improving social and emotional well-being (SEWB) among Indigenous adolescents is crucial. Since neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) are common in Indigenous people and adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are important contributors to negative health outcomes throughout the lifespan, we investigated whether limited ACE exposure is associated with reduced risk of NDDs in Australian Indigenous teens using the data from multiple waves (Wave 1 to Wave 9, and Wave 11) of the Longitudinal Study of Indigenous Children (LSIC). We also examined the role of other protective factors, such as Indigenous cultural identity and school connectedness, against NDDs. A strengths-based approach using mixed-effects logistic regression models examined the protective effect of limited ACE exposure (from LSIC waves 1–9) on NDDs (outcome from LSIC wave 11), adjusting for sociodemographic factors. The NDDs included autism, ADHD, intellectual, neurological, and specific learning disabilities. Of the 370 individuals analysed, 73.2% valued Indigenous cultural identity, and 70.5% were strongly connected at school. More than one-fourth (27.8%) reported limited ACE exposure, while the majority was not diagnosed with NDDs (93%). Longitudinal analysis revealed limited ACE exposure was 6.01 times (95% CI: 1.26–28.61; p = 0.024) more likely to be protective against NDDs compared to those exposed to multiple ACEs. Moreover, valuing cultural identity (aOR = 2.81; 95% CI: 1.06–7.39; p = 0.038) and girls (aOR = 13.88; 95% CI: 3.06–62.84; p = 0.001) were protective against NDDs compared to their respective counterparts. Our findings highlight the need to prevent ACE exposure and promote Indigenous cultural identity in preventing negative health outcomes and the exacerbation of health inequities to strengthen the SEWB of Indigenous communities.

Exploring conflicts between traditional Shona practises and post-colonial modernity in gender roles in Stephen Chifunyise’s Oh My Grandfather

This article explores the intersection of gender roles, traditional Shona culture, and colonial legacies in Stephen Chifunyise’s play Oh My Grandfather (2018). Set in post-colonial Zimbabwe, the play highlights generational conflicts within the Matanga family, reflecting broader societal struggles. It explores how patriarchal Shona traditions continue to dictate gender dynamics, which are largely oppressive toward women. The article focuses on the roles of Morgan and Dorcas, who navigate between these traditional expectations and modern, Western values, creating what Homi K. Bhabha terms a ‘Third Space’ of cultural hybridity. The article discusses how Chifunyise critiques rigid gender norms while advocating for a balance between preserving cultural heritage and embracing modern ideals, such as gender equality. By highlighting characters like Dorcas and Tandi, who resist oppressive traditions, the play suggests that cultural practices can evolve without perpetuating injustice. Ultimately, Oh My Grandfather provides a nuanced exploration of the complexities of cultural identity in contemporary Zimbabwe, advocating for an integration of tradition and modernity that promotes a more equitable society.

The Enigma of Ownership of the Balkan Epic

The Balkans, characterized by complex historical, political and cultural dimensions, presents a rich and diverse ethnic, cultural and social picture. This complexity is explored in Adela Peeva's documentary Who Is This Song?, which investigates the contested origins of a folk song claimed by many Balkan nations. The documentary is a truth about the cultural diversity in the Balkans and the difficulty to identify the belonging of almost every cultural product that belongs to the folklore of these parts. This study focuses on Albanian, Bosnian, Croatian, and Macedonian folklore, using phenomenological and comparative methods to uncover common motifs, themes, and narrative structures, as well as differences. The study highlights the rich cultural heritage of the region shaped by various historical influences and contributes to a deeper understanding of the cultural identity of the Balkans. From this research it is concluded that the peoples living in this geographical space have exchanged among themselves over the centuries, so that in modern times, the folklore contents that we have analyzed are so close in terms of theme, motif and narrative structure that if they are not shown in the different language it would be difficult to understand that they belong to some nations. Received: 14 September 2024 / Accepted: 28 October 2024 / Published: 05 November 2024